Things You Might Feel Shame For, That Are Actually Very Common!
As therapists, we hear from people in all walks of life. Every client is different and comes to therapy with varied experiences, but one thing remains true; most people hold shame for things they don’t need to. When we feel shame, our brains will often make us think...
4 ADHD Skills That Actually Work
If you have ADHD, you know that finding the right set of tools and techniques that work for you can be a process of trial and error. What works for you might be the opposite of helpful for someone else. Below you’ll find a few techniques to try that go beyond the...
Life Hacks For When Everything Feels Hard
Mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and ADHD can make for difficult days. Ideally, with the right combination of therapy, coping skills, or medication, there won’t be so many hard days. But sometimes we hit a rough patch or experience a stressor or...
Pride Month: How to Support Someone Coming Out
June is Pride Month, so let’s take this opportunity to go over some ways you can support the LGBTQ+ folks in your life if they choose to share their experience with you. Your response should vary based on your relationship dynamic, but in general, these are some rules...
Be a Better Mental Health Ally: 7 Stigmatizing Phrases and What To Say Instead
Chances are, you’ve either said or heard each of these phrases. While not typically used with ill-intent, imagine for a moment being someone who experiences the mental health challenges described, and how you might interpret these statements. Small, intentional...
What to Expect in Your First Counseling Session
So you made the decision to start therapy. You sorted through lists of available therapists, found Star Meadow, and made an appointment. Congratulations! This is the hardest step, and we’re so proud of you for taking it. For most people who have never been to therapy...
3 Unconventional Ways to Stop a Panic Attack
Panic attacks feel different for everyone, but typically include sensations like a pounding heart, sweating, a feeling of terror, constricted or rapid breathing, and feeling as though the room is closing in on you or spinning. Regardless of how they present, a...
Deep Breathing: Why Do It?
If you have ever felt frustrated by being told to just "take a deep breath" when you are feeling angry or anxious, you aren't alone. It's difficult to heed this advice when, in the moment, the mind and body are distracted or dysregulated. The adage of "just breathe"...
How to Disobey “Worthless” Thoughts
If you believe you are “worthless,” it can bring on crushing feelings of depression and shame. But worthlessness doesn't only impact how you feel. It also profoundly impacts what you do next. When you believe you are “worthless,” you might: Not ask for help Silence...
The 12 Best Mental Health Apps
Modern technology can be an amazing supplement to professional counseling. Check out these 12 Apps that come recommended for recovery from depression, eating disorders, PTSD, insomnia, and anxiety. DEPRESSION RECOVERY APPS 1. TalkLife (online support tool)...